Author: Anita Clarke

Danny Chelsea Boot by 3.1 Phillip Lim

i got: Danny Chelsea Boot by 3.1 Phillip Lim

There is a damn good reason the Danny Chelsea Boot by 3.1 Phillip Lim is sold out online is sold out online. It’s the most perfect Chelsea Boot ever! I wanted the rose gold Quinn loafers but The Room didn’t have my size. My heart was broken. I wandered the shoe racks deciding what to do. Finally, I bit the bullet and went for the Danny Chelsea Boot. I don’t regret it one bit. What makes these the perfect Chelsea Boot? Well the almond toe shape is slim but roomy. The shaft is streamline and fits under slim pants perfectly. The fit is perfect, they didn’t require breaking in at all. I’ve been wearing the boots nonstop since I got them and they are so incredibly comfortable. My heels are very, very, very lonely at this point. I don’t think they’ll see the light of day until the snow starts and I have to start wearing winter boots. images: 31philliplim.com, me

FASHION Magazine Winter 2014 - Courtney Love

FASHION Magazine Winter 2014 – Courtney Love

Courtney Love looks absolutely amazing on the cover of the FASHION Magazine Winter 2014 issue. I can’t wait to read the full interview. Cover Credits: Photographed by Chris Nicholls and styled by Zeina Esmail, Courtney Love wears a dress, $3,500, by Gucci at Holt Renfrew and earrings, $1,200, from Carole Tanenbaum Vintage Collection. Hair by Domingo Quintero for Jed Root/Serge Normant Products. Makeup by Lisa Aharon for Jed Root/Chanel Beauté. Fashion Assistant, Eliza Grossman.

KAELEN X Sam Roberts Band Operanation Tee

Operanation might be over for the year but you can still support the Canadian Opera Company with a limited edition KAELEN X Sam Roberts Band Operanation Tee. The T-shirt incorporates elements of this years Operanation theme, Temptation. We may not have gotten the Kaelen x Amy Burstyn-Fritz treatment but the t-shirt is a more accessible way to get into Kaelen. As a friend of Operanation, I was gifted a KAELEN X Sam Roberts Band Operanation Tee to wear. The first thing that struck me was the fit. It might just be me but when I put on a t-shirt with the perfect fit everything feels right in the world. The next thing that hit me was the perfect branding. I hate logo shirts so it was really refreshing to have a t-shirt that managed to namedrop without it being overpowering to the design. The third thing that stood out was the design itself (and that it extends to the back of the shirt). This is a t-shirt that looks like it wasn’t designed by committee. …

Revlon by Marchesa Nail Art 3D Jewel Appliqués

Revlon by Marchesa Nail Art 3D Jewel Appliques

l never thought l would be singing from the rooftops about nail wraps. l haven’t liked any of the ones l’ve sampled in the past like Sally Hansen or Essie. However, I’m here to tell you the Revlon by Marchesa collaboration nail wraps are the best things ever. Keren Craig and Georgina Chapman partnered with Revlon in order to translate their embellishment heavy designs to nail wraps that almost everyone can afford. The Revlon by Marchesa nail wraps are 3D textured appliqués accented with opulent jewels and beads. They are the most ornate 3D designs I’ve seen applied to nail wraps. The Marchesa nail wraps are a thing of beauty. They really do a great job of representing the brand in a very accessible manner. When I received the collection from Revlon, l wasn’t even Sure I wanted to use them. They were too damn pretty. l got over myself though and picked my least favourite pair to test out. I’m still not sure that I’m going to use the other wraps yet. My main …

Cottonelle Care Routine

I don’t pay much attention to the type of toilet paper I use. My parents had their routine but when I moved out it wasn’t about brand loyalty but convenience and price. Cottonelle challenged me to think about my choices when they dropped off the Cottonelle Care Routine package at my front door. The Cottonelle Care Routine is a two step process that uses Cottonelle Fresh Care Flushable Cleansing Cloths followed by Cottonelle Toilet Paper. Just what are Cottonelle Fresh Care Flushable Cleansing Cloths? They are pre-moistened toilet paper. As an adult it sounds kind of strange to use pre-moistened toilet paper but parents use them on babies and toddlers all the time. Why should babies and toddlers be the ones to have ultra clean bums all the time? Adults should get a piece of that too and Cottonelle is in agreement. Cottonelle Fresh Care Flushable Cleansing Cloths are 90 percent wood pulp and water. They passed trade associated guidelines that demonstrate that the cloths clear properly maintained toilets, drain lines, sewers and pumps. The …

Avocado from Mexico: Do it Yourself Beauty Meetup at Tips Nail Bar

Avocados from Mexico: Do it Yourself Beauty Meetup at Tips Nail Bar

It seemed like a random pairing: Avocados from Mexico and Tips Nail Bar. I wasn’t sure what was going on but l immediately replied to RSVP. Who doesn’t love a manicure from my friends at Tips. What is this Avocados from Mexico organization? Well, the APEAM (Avocado Producers and Exporting Packers Association of Mexico) is a non-profit organization that represents the Mexican Hass avocado industry. Avocados from Mexico is the group’s media arm that spreads awareness about the benefits of Avocados. Before the polish application we were treated to an avocado hand treatment. This was the first time I’ve ever used avocado topically. l typically eat avocado (Love Guacamole!) instead of spreading it on my skin. The hand treatment contained avocados provided by Avocados from Mexico, egg white, rolled oats and lemon juice. The mixture was spread all over my hands and it soaked for 20 minutes. l liked the hand treatment. My hands were quite dry before the treatment and the avocado really helped in adding moisture again. I’ll have to try this again …

MasterCard Stylicity – The I want – I got Canadian Tuxedo

The Canadian Tuxedo. Like it or not, it’s a fashion trend that is never going to go away. And with every trend it can be done well and it can be done badly. MasterCard Stylicity is holding a Canadian Tuxedo Contest this season and the winner will win and $2,000 MasterCard Prepaid Card. You have until today (October 25, 2013) to submit your Canadian Tuxedo entry using the #Stylicity hashtag on Instagram or Twitter. This season, MasterCard Stylicity pays tribute to the denim on denim trend, also known as – The Canadian Tuxedo. MasterCard Stylicity bloggers have been invited to style and submit their own version of the Canadian Tuxedo using a mix of their wardrobe with an item(s) purchased from Stylicity merchants in their respective neighbourhoods.(source) So, I’ve been asked to show off my version of the Canadian Tuxedo. I’m very strict on the definition and Canadian Tuxedo is denim on denim full stop. To make this outfit happen I headed to the Sauvage were I grabbed a Cheap Monday denim button up and …

Damir Doma x MYKITA Spring Summer 2014 Sunglasses

Damir Doma x MYKITA Spring Summer 2014 Sunglasses

Easy way to my heart is through sunglasses. MYKITA always has great collaborations and I’m loving the Damir Doma Spring Summer 2014 ones. There are two styls, Vivien and Rita. I like the combination of transparent material and wisps of colour that penetrate throughout. “VIVIEN” & “RITA” are a statement, the two oversized butterfly-style frames are flamboyant, eccentric and larger than life. They are awash with colours that were infused into the transparent material employed: a frozen melange of rust-red, green, aubergine and blue colour clouds. This two new sunglasses models are available in three colour combinations: Cloudy Blue (transparent with dashes of ink blue), Cloudy Brown (transparent with rust-brown hues) and Cloudy Purple (transparent with rust red, green, aubergine-coloured and blue colour clouds). Both frames are fitted with tinted lenses from pioneering optical solutions specialist Zeiss and will go on sale in spring 2014 at all MYKITA Shops and the Damir Doma flagship store in Paris.(source) images: blog.mykita.com

MasterCard Stylicity – West Queen West

MasterCard Stylicity – West Queen West

World MasterCard Fashion Week is upon us and that marks the start of the Stylicity program. I’ve participated as one of the official Bloggers for MasterCard Stylicity for a few seasons now and I was even featured in their past ad campaigns. With the Stylicity program, MasterCard holders get special discounts at number of local retailers as well as some great online deals until November 3, 2013. Now, I’m here to talk about my stomping grounds, West Queen West. I’m definitely dating myself but ever since my university days in the mid 90s West Queen West has been the party destination. Back then, there wasn’t much development like now but there were bars, booze cans and secret raves that fuelled the dancing and partying yearnings of youth. Those amazing memories are why I have such a strong attachment to the area. I’m a little older now but I’m still stomping around West Queen West. The area has turned into a hotbed for commerce and MasterCard customers have lots of choice. West Queen West is where …

Holt Renfrew x Paul Smith x Movember Mittens

Holt Renfrew continues with it’s designer charity collaboration with Paul Smith and a cause close to my heart, Movember. I think this is the cutest collaboration yet, limited edition mittens in Paul Smith’s iconic stripes. Holt Renfrew is looking to reach it’s goal of providing $100,000 to Movember through the sale of the mittens this season. I think they’d make a great gift. Holt Renfrew has collaborated with renowned British designer Sir Paul Smith on an exclusive collection of mittens for Movember. Paul Smith created the limited edition mittens uniquely for this partnership, which are available only in Canada and only at Holt Renfrew. Every pair of limited edition Paul Smith mittens purchased will help support the men’s health programs run by Movember. In Canada, Movember supports prostate cancer and male mental health initiatives in the area of education, awareness, research and survivorship. “We’re absolutely thrilled to collaborate with Paul Smith and Movember on this special edition mitten collection,” said Alexandra Weston, Holt Renfrew’s Director of Brand Strategy. “We partnered with Paul Smith to create …

Hervé Léger by Max Azria Barbie

i want: Herve Leger by Max Azria Barbie

Hervé Léger by Max Azria Barbie I have to admit, I’m pretty smitten with the Hervé Léger by Max Azria Barbie. They’ve done a really great job on her. LOOK AT THE GLADIATOR SANDALS PEOPLE!!! Barbie® doll wraps herself in chic couture fashions constructed out of authentic Hervé Léger by Max Azria bandages and yarns, and manufactured at the same factory that produces the full designer collection. The first look is a red haute bandage dress with a removable black harness belt, black gladiator boots and a signature black and gold clutch. The second look includes a black-andwhite jacquard dress, open-toe booties and a black-studded clutch.(source) The Hervé Léger by Max Azria Barbie® Doll is available for $150 on Barbiecollector.com. Add to bag $150.00 ‘>Hervé Léger by Max Azria Barbie® Doll | Barbie Collector.

Enamored Hi-Shine Nail Lacquer by Marc Jacobs Beauty

geekiviews: Enamored Hi-Shine Nail Lacquer by Marc Jacobs Beauty

Marc Jacobs announced a beauty line earlier this year and the reaction was pretty massive. As a teaser, the press release included photos of of the packaging design. I was in love already. The design was so compelling. Black and silver dominated the packaging that played with long lines and curves. The design was simple but managed to capture a distinct, expensive look of its own. It didn’t matter what the product was like I would be buying some nail polish and mascara. Marc Jacobs and Sephora are both owned by LVMH. Marc Jacobs Beauty is a collaboration between the designer and Sephora Originals, the company’s private label. This is first foray into cosmetic collaborations with designers from the LVMH family. Originals produced lines for Hello Kitty and a few smaller designers previously. So fast forward to September and the collection is in Sephora stores. I’m on a mission to buy the Enamored Hi-Shine Nail Lacquer by Marc Jacobs Beauty. I spend an agonizing time figuring out which colours to buy. The selection of colours …

I want – I got’s Top Picks for Scotiabank Nuit Blanche: The Final List

There are just too many interesting sounding art installations going on during Scotiabank Nuit Blanche. Too many to post about individually on the site. I started but I realize it’s pretty pointless. So, I’ve decided to share My Scotiabank Nuit Blanche planner. It’s pretty ambitious and I’m sure I won’t see all of it. The Scotiabank Nuit Blanche website is pretty handy. It’s optimized for mobile and it comes with a handy planning tool that you can share with your friends. So, instead of listing everything out here, I’m just going to link to I want – I got’s Top Picks for Scotiabank Nuit Blanche. I’ll give you a few hints off my list though: Forever Bicycles at Nathan Phillips Square Familia at Church of the Holy Trinity Garden Tower in Toronto at Metropolitan United Church Urban Visuals lightbridge at Puente de Luz images: scotiabanknuitblanche.ca

I want - I got's Top Picks for Nuit Blanche: The (Re)Generator Project

I want – I got’s Top Picks for Nuit Blanche: The (Re)Generator Project

The (Re)Generator Project The [RE] GENERATOR Project is an interactive multimedia installation that explores the concept of “RE” (REcycling, REmixing, REinventing, REusing, REpurposing etc) using elements of fashion design, visual art, social media and projection mapping. It is guided by the Akan ideology of Sankofa which states, “It is not wrong to go back for that which you have forgotten.” The [RE] GENERATOR Project will incorporate Gabrielle Lasporte’s organic exploration of “flow” using the Modern Batik technique and Chinedu Ukabam’s digital remix of African patterns and mashup of fashion silhouettes. The installation will close the loop between the creators and their audience, allowing them to “weave” their own inspiration into the installation in real time. A special hashtag will be revealed on the website (http://theregeneratorproject.org) before the installation goes live, making it possible to upload an image or pattern into the installation using Instagram. The selection process will be crowd-sourced using the number of “likes” or comments. H&M Eaton’s Centre, Yonge Street & Dundas Street (Best viewed from the south-west corner of Yonge and Dundas.) …

i want: New York Blazer by Bano eeMee

i want: New York Blazer by Bano eeMee

Canadian online shopping is developing rapidly and I’m getting notified of new shops all the time. One of those shops is Pont Neuf Boutique. I was browsing the site and discovered this great leather blazer by Bano eeMee. The New York Blazer has a fitted, sever cut. I also love anything that can be worn a number of different ways. Calgary based Bano eeMee was launched in 2011 by Creative Director Aleem Arif. Aleem works closely with artisans in his native Pakistan to produce the brand’s leather jackets. Canada isn’t totally left out and some pieces are produced in Calgary. The New York Blazer by Bano eeMee is $348 at Pont Neuf Boutique. images: pontneufboutique.ca

Proenza Schouler x M·A·C Cosmetics

Proenza Schouler x M·A·C Cosmetics = OMFG!!!

It’s Proenza Schouler day at I want – I got. I come bearing amazing news. Proenza Schouler and M·A·C Cosmetics are collaborating on a Spring Summer 2014 beauty collection. OMFG!!!!! This limited edition collection will have Ombre Face Powders, Lipsticks, Pro Longwear Eye Liners and Lip Pencils, Nail Lacquers, and a 129SE Powder Brush. The collection will be inspired by Jack and Lazaro’s previous collections. Look for the collection to hit stores and online everywhere April 2014. Quote from James Gager, Creative Director, Senior Vice President, M·A·C Cosmetics: “I have always respected Jack and Lazaro’s keen vision and point of view. We’ve worked together backstage creating beauty looks for their runway shows for many years and it has been fascinating to me watching them evolve. They have a very particular perspective on their makeup look each season. It has been a great experience collaborating with them to bring their beauty vision off the runway to our customers.” Quote from Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez of Proenza Schouler: “Beauty has always played a huge role in …

Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2014 Video

Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2014 Video

Proenza Schouler can do no wrong! This Spring Summer 2014 collection is so very strong with every look hitting the right notes in my style playlist. Jack and Lazaro relayed their inspiration to Hamish Bowles at Vogue: looking at the ice-cool seventies interiors of architects and designers like Joe Colombo and Paul Rudolph, and the monumental organic furniture of the Brazilian Sérgio Rodrigues, and the North Californian J. B. Blunk. “Glass and chrome and white lacquer,” said McCollough of those vintage interiors that turned them on, “mixed up with a shaggy Moroccan rug.” “It’s minimal,” added Hernandez, “but there’s a warmth, an earthiness to it with all those green plants.”(source) The shoes, the shoes. I want the shoes so badly!! As always, I try not to make too many final judgements on a collection without seeing the video. The Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2014 fashion show is amazing! I’m so in love. I also took a look at the Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2014 trunk show on Moda Operandi. It’s just stunning. Proenza Schouler is …

I want - I got's Top Picks for Nuit Blanche 2013: Chromatherapy

I want – I got’s Top Picks for Nuit Blanche 2013: Chromatherapy

Are you dressing on the same wavelengths as your inner palette? Are you ready to discover the right hue for a new you? Whether it’s mastering the art of throwing shade, or learning how to achieve high level spectrum dressing, #CHROMATHERAPY promises to interpret your colour and style personality via an immersive, vibrant journey through the colour wheel. Co-led by licensed chromatherapists @REERAW and @FINALFASHION, this live media spectacle invites participants to be a part of a latenight #SNBTOstreet level infomercial. Join us to get feel-good advice on how to dress in harmony with the way you live and the person you truly are. Through the transformative powers of silken chakra chroma draping techniques and fashion illustration futurisms, this talk-show-meets-hawk-show will delve deep into the style sub-consciousness of Toronto, uncovering life-changing revelations, one outfit at a time. #CHROMATHERAPY is an upcoming site- and social-specific performance by REA MCNAMARA and DANIELLE MEDER for NUIT BLANCHE 2013, Toronto’s annual free all-night contemporary art event. It is an art project curated by EARL MILLER for the QUEEN ST. …

I want - I got's Top Picks for Nuit Blanche 2013: Philip Sparks Bespoke Bow Tie Shop

I want – I got’s Top Picks for Nuit Blanche 2013: Philip Sparks Bespoke Bow Tie Shop

To celebrate Nuit Blanche, the Philip Sparks shop will be converted into a bespoke bow tie workshop on Saturday, October 5. Between 7 pm and midnight, Sparks and his studio team will be taking custom neckwear orders from shoppers and cutting, stitching and pressing them up on the spot. “Our focus this season has been on highlighting that our menswear and womenswear is proudly made in Toronto,” says Sparks. “This event is an opportunity for customers to see local manufacturing in action and order a one-of-a-kind piece made just for them.” The installation will also mark the launch of a new, premium bespoke service available through the store. Unlike many other made-to-order offerings, Philip Sparks tailors collaborate with customers to develop coats, suits and shirting from scratch with personalized design and material sourcing and multiple fitting appointments. Philip Sparks Bespoke Bow Tie Shop Saturday, October 5, 7 pm to midnight 162 Ossington Avenue (side entrance off Foxley Street)

Hermès Festival des Métiers at The Design Exchange - October 2 - 6, 2013

Hermes Festival des Metiers at The Design Exchange – October 2 – 6, 2013

Hermès Festival des Métiers at The Design Exchange – October 2 – 6, 2013 Hermès proudly celebrates both the passion and perfection of the work of its artisans with the Festival des Métiers in Toronto from October 2 – October 6, 2013 at the Design Exchange. This engaging cultural exhibition provides a fascinating insight into the longstanding traditions and values of Hermès in the crafting of fine objects defined by an uncompromising commitment to the highest standards of quality. The exhibition features intimate behind-the-scenes demonstrations by masterful craftspeople from the renowned Hermès workshops in France, illustrating the methods in which products are painstakingly made-by-hand using techniques passed from generation to generation. Admission to Festival des Métiers is free. October 2 – 6, 2013, 11am – 7pm Daily. Location: Design Exchange — 234 Bay Street Website: www.dx.org

Fashion & Textiles Trivia Night – September 25, 2013

Fashion & Textiles Trivia Night – September 25, 2013 Venue: Fox’s Den, 1075 Bay St. Time: 7 PM What is Batik? What is Diane Von Furstenberg best known for? Which British inventor patented the first workable sewing machine? Silk comes from worms, but which part of the worm produces the silk threads? Who is credited with inventing the Little Black Dress? Strut your stuff and show off your fashion and textiles know how. Hosted by Curator Sarah Fee No pressure, it’s all fun. Questions range from easy to challenging with teams competing for bragging rights. You could achieve the status of student all the way up to curator! So grab a beer, join a team and prepare for a good time. Contact 416-586-5797 programs@rom.on.ca

I’m in the Toronto Life Stylebook Fall 2013 Edition

I have a little feature in the Fall 2013 Toronto Life Stylebook. They approached me to discuss my beauty routine and what new products I’m looking forward to this fall. I give shout outs to some of my favourite beauty brands and retailers: Lancome, Chanel, Essie, Givenchy, Marni, Balenciaga, Philosophy, Concepts Salon & Spa and the Miraj Hammam Spa at The Shangri-La Hotel. The most surprising thing about the feature was this illustration of me. I was completely stunned. If you remember, I hated the last illustration Toronto Life commissioned of me. Judit García-Talavera is an illustrator based in Barcelona, Spain. She is absolutely incredible and I’m not just saying that because she created a kick ass illustration of me. She’s worked with clients such as Marie Claire Spain, Telegraph’s Stella magazine, Bloomingdales, ELLE China, Teen Vogue, Gilt Group, ELLE Girl Japan, Harper’s Bazaar Spain, Stylesight, Rolling Stone Spain, Hennessy Cognac and Piaget. You can see all the rest of Judit’s work for the Fall 2013 Toronto Life Stylebook on her blog. The Toronto Life …

Hudson’s Bay Company x Converse Jack Purcell – Fall 2013

Converse is killing it for Fall 2013. There is the Maison Martin Margiela collaboration and one featuring an iconic Canadian institution, Hudson’s Bay Company. Those of you that covet Hudson’s Bay Company stripes, these are the sneaker for you. Available in the unisex Converse Jack Purcell, Duck Boot and women’s only Helen silhouettes, each style embodies the Hudson’s Bay Company wool point blanket stripes, with features such as threaded stitching and antique brass eyelets, and the Jack Purcell and Hudson’s Bay logos on the foot bed. These silhouettes also carry an official “Seal of Quality” maintaining the authenticity of Hudson’s Bay Company. Additionally, the Jack Purcell Duck features a leather collar and heel stay, as well as embroidery on the tongue of the shoe, creating an elevated style that merges these two iconic brands. (source: Press Release) The Converse x Hudson’s Bay Company Jack Purcell collection is available exclusively at Hudson’s Bay Stores and will retail for $120-140.

Honeymania by The Body Shop

Honeymania Collection by The Body Shop

It’s been over a decade since I’ve shopped at The Body Shop. In university, I was obsessed with their fragrances and the colourful glycerin soaps. Other brands caught my eyes over the years and I moved away from The Body Shop. Fast forward to now and a package from The Body Shop arrives at my door. They are launching a new product line called Honeymania. They have partnered with Beza Mar beekeepers in the remote Sheva rainforest in Ethiopian highlands to bring community fair trade honey to incorporate into the Honeymania product line. The beekeepers work with the bee’s natural cycle and use traditional techniques so that their use of the bees and the rainforest is sustainable. The hand harvested honey is food grade and it’s sold by luxury brands as table honey. Launching in stores on October 7, 2013, Honeymania will feature Lip Balm, Soap, Shower Gel, Body Butter, Bubble Bath Melt, Body Scrub and Eau de Toilette. Each product has a delicate scent with notes of floral honey blossoms and sweet honey. The …